Sword length: finding a suitable blade

[TimJentoft]

I wish to get more serious in my study of armed combat, using european blades. And ofcourse, I need a blade suitable for someone of my height. It won't do to practice with a blade that is too long, for example. Also, there is a question of style. I favor bastard swords, simply because of flexibility. They are light enough to be wielded one-handed with a shield, yet at the same time they can used two-haned for more forceful blows. I also like the claymore.

So, the question: I'm ca 1.78 metres(or ca 5'10-5'11) tall, and of moderate strength(I won't win a weightlifting contest, but I'm no weakling), so what lenght should I look for? I have heard that there is a sort of formula for calculating this, but I've proven incapable of finding it. Any and all help is welcome. in advance: thanks.

[Bnonn Tennant]

I am of the same height as you, and I favor a 95 cm blade and 25-30 cm hilt. However, I fear you are mistaken in believing that a bastardsword can be wielded with a shield. I myself have never heard of such a notion; arming swords are rather shorter than bastardswords (and indeed, a bastardsword is simply a particular type of longsword, more tapered for better thrusting, and usually with a waisted hilt). It's certainly true bastardswords can be used single-handed, but not as a matter of course, such as with a shield in the other hand.

That said, they're still very flexible weapons.

[TimJentoft]

Thanks. And yes, upon closer research, I see I might have been mistaken. All my knowledge of swords and swordtypes come from various sourcebooks on medieval arms and armor. Sadly, some are not as accurate as others.

[Lorraine Munoa]

the best formula for picking a weapon length is trying several of many sizes and seeing what you like best, IMHO. We had meghan, in ARMA provo, who is not a very tall person at all, using a greatsword, whereas I, at average height, like my bastard sword for the ease of motion in it, because my arms take better to something lighter. So I'd think the best thing to do is try some weapons and see what works for you.

[Matt Bryant]

I am a proponent of training with various sword lengths. I like everything from a 42" to a 60" longsword, and I find it important to be able to handle them all. I do tend towards longer swords though.

A test that I do myself is to set the tip on the ground and stand beside it. If the pommel is cupped inside your armpit with a normal posture then that is a good proportional length. Another test that I do is to hold out my off hand as if I were grabbing and opponent, then I put the tip on him and see how far I have to stretch my sword arm back to do so. I it is more than a 90 degree bend in my elbow, then the blade is a little long.

Most importantly though, I would go with whatever is most comfortable for you personally.

[Shane Smith]

It's definitely all about personal preference in my opinion. I'm a tall guy and I like 39" blades. When Albion finally makes one along the lines of the Regent with a stout blade that length and well balanced, I'm buying. <img src="/forum/images/icons/grin.gif" alt="" />